Explore the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

Starting from our gateway hotel near downtown Salt Lake City, our adventure kicks off along Utah’s stunning Wasatch Front, marking the beginning of our journey to Yellowstone National Park! Today’s route takes us through four states – Utah, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. Your guides will prepare a delicious picnic lunch before entering Yellowstone National Park. Once entering the park, we’ll work our way to the Midway Geyser Basin which is home to one of Yellowstone’s most iconic features – Grand Prismatic Hot Spring. The Grand Prismatic Hot Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States, and is known for its stunning rainbow-like colors caused by heat-loving microorganisms living in its mineral-rich waters. We’ll make a short introductory walk out to a viewpoint that allows for some great photo opportunities. Bison are common in this area, so we’ll be sure to keep an eye out as we explore this scenic location.

This evening, we’ll arrive at our campsite just outside the National Park boundaries, situated on a beautiful lake. Your guides will provide a simple tent-tutorial before preparing a delicious camp dinner. Then, relax with s’mores by the campfire as the sunset gives way to an unforgettable starry night sky.

Driving Time: 4.5 hours
Hiking: Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail | 2 miles | Minimal elevation gain
Accommodation: Camping near West Yellowstone, Montana

Spot Wildlife & Discover the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Today, we’ll embark on a full day of exploration in Yellowstone National Park, beginning with an early morning venture into Hayden Valley. As we wind through this scenic landscape, keep your eyes peeled for iconic wildlife—bison, elk, moose, and if we’re fortunate, a grizzly bear or wolf.

Our next destination is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a breathtaking geological marvel. Here, we’ll marvel at the dramatic canyon walls carved by the powerful Yellowstone River and witness cascading waterfalls plummeting into the canyon’s depths. We’ll then embark on a scenic hike that offers stunning panoramic views, including turquoise lakes, lily pad ponds, fascinating geothermal features, and potentially more wildlife encounters.

After a morning of exploration, we’ll pause for lunch and continue our park adventure by visiting the Canyon Visitor Center. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about Yellowstone’s remarkable geology and rich natural history. As the day winds down, we’ll stop in the charming town of West Yellowstone. Take some time to browse local shops and pick up souvenirs before we return to our campsite for the evening.

Driving Time: 1-2 hours
Hiking:  Clear Lake & Artists Point Loop | 4-6 miles | 500+ feet elevation gain
Accommodation: Camping near West Yellowstone, Montana

Witness Old Faithful Erupt & Enter Grand Teton National Park

This morning, we’ll depart from our campsite and explore the Upper Geyser Basin, one of Yellowstone’s most iconic geothermal areas. Witness the awe-inspiring power of nature as we observe world-famous geysers like Old Faithful, Grand Geyser, and Castle Geyser erupting with impressive plumes of steam and hot water. Our guides will lead us along a network of trails and boardwalks, connecting us to a variety of fascinating geothermal features, including vibrant hot springs and bubbling mud pots.

We’ll continue our Yellowstone exploration, taking in the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. As the afternoon progresses, we’ll arrive at our campsite in Grand Teton National Park. You’ll have free time to settle in and explore the surrounding area. A short walk leads to breathtaking views of Jackson Lake, where the late afternoon light illuminates the dramatic Teton Range. The jagged peaks rise from the lake’s surface, creating a spectacular panorama showcasing Mount Teewinot, Mount Owen, and the iconic Grand Teton.

This evening, we’ll relax at our campsite, enjoying the surrounding beauty and anticipating the adventures to come. Your guides will prepare a delicious camp meal, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the day’s incredible experiences in Yellowstone.

Driving Time: 3 hours
Hiking: Upper Geyser Basin Loop | 3-5 miles | 400 feet elevation gain
Accommodation: Camping in Grand Teton National Park

Active Day in Grand Teton & Relaxing Evening in Jackson Hole

After filling up on a delicious breakfast at camp, we’ll head out to explore Grand Teton National Park. We’ve planned an awesome mix of biking and hiking for today. We’ll grab bikes from the rental shop just outside the park and cruise to some amazing viewpoints. When we arrive at the Taggart Lake trailhead, we’ll lock up the bikes and tackle this gorgeous 4-mile hike for some of the best views of the Tetons! As trail guiding is not permitted in Grand Teton National Park, this will be a self-guided hike with your fellow group mates. Your guides will equip you with everything you need to know for a fun and enjoyable experience. After the hike, your guides will provide a scenic picnic lunch before hopping back on the bikes for our return ride.

For the afternoon, we’ll explore the vibrant town of Jackson Hole where you’ll have time to discover unique shops and world-class art galleries showcasing fine art and Western masterpieces. We’ll wrap up with dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants before heading back to camp. The day concludes with stories and s’mores around the campfire beneath the stunning Teton night sky.

Driving Time: Local
Hiking (Self-Guided): Taggart Lake Loop | 4 miles | 400+ feet elevation gain
Activity: 3-5 miles | Biking is optional
Accommodation: Camping in Grand Teton National Park

Morning Alpine Lake Hike & Return to Salt Lake City

This morning we plan to visit Mormon Row Historic Site, known for its rustic barns that make for one of the classic views of the Tetons. From there, we’ll head to Jenny Lake, the crown jewel of Grand Teton National Park. After a scenic shuttle ride across the pristine waters, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on several self-guided hikes.

We recommend hiking to Inspiration Point, a rewarding trek offering panoramic views of the lake and the towering Teton Range. Afterward, you can leisurely stroll along the Jenny Lake Loop Trail, taking in the serene beauty of the surrounding wilderness. These well-marked trails are perfect for exploring with fellow travelers and capturing stunning photos. Before bidding farewell to the Tetons, we’ll savor a delicious lunch. As we journey back to Salt Lake City, we’ll reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past few days and the lasting memories we’ve created.

Driving Time: 4 hours
Hiking (Self-Guided): Inspiration Point & Jenny Lake Loop Trail | 2-5 miles | 400-700 feet elevation gain
Note: We operate this trip in both directions depending on seasonality or campground availability.